The two wins that Sunrisers Hyderabad were looking for before we hit the road have come our way, though I must say that we almost made a meal of a regulation chase against Mumbai Indians on Thursday!
Right from the auction, I have reiterated the depth in our squad, and that is already beginning to make its presence felt. The bowling group has stood up remarkably well in our first two home games. The best part is their approach; they are always looking for wickets, and I feel there is no better dot ball than the one that has a W to go with it. There is experience, plenty of skill and versatility, and even when we lost Bhuvi to injury in our second match, Sandeep Sharma stepped up beautifully.
I am particularly delighted at how well Shikhar has been batting. The notable feature is his mindset. He is not trying to just accumulate but is intent on pouncing on the bowling. It’s a mindset that has been a stunning feature in international cricket since the Champions Trophy last year, and it is great to see him continue in similar fashion. I expect him to continue to stack up the runs because I know how hard he has worked on his technique as well. He is a lot more balanced at the crease, which allows him to score freely on both sides of the wicket. He is a complete package now, on top of his game, and that is wonderful both for us at Sunrisers and for the national team.
Kane Williamson has led the team expertly, attacking constantly and setting excellent fields. It was also nice to see Deepak Hooda take responsibility during that collapse against Mumbai and guide the team home. We have invested a lot in him in the last two or three years, and to see that investment pay off is heart-warming for the Sunrisers family.
The continued success of Mayank Markande showcases the best of IPL, a tournament that allows relative unknowns to become overnight heroes. He is not even a regular member of his Punjab state side, yet the confidence with which he has bowled in his first two games is remarkable. Long may his run continue.
The first week of the IPL has thrown up entertaining cricket, as per norm, though it will be sad for the Chennai fans not to be able to see their favourite sons in action on their own turf for the rest of the season. I truly feel for them.
